Reviews of Ondudu

"This was a different experience from our stay at other lodges. It was much less about animals and bird life although rock hyraxes were everywhere. The rock formations around the camp are amazing - more like massive boulders piled on top of each other. I understand that geologically they are very old. Our sundowner on the first evening took us up some rocks which reminded me of Picnic at Hanging Rock for those of you who remember that film. However, we all returned safely! We went on one of the suggested walks - the 5km walk. This was very worthwhile and I would recommend it to anyone. We also went on the trip to see the cave art which was very worthwhile.

Just one point to note is that the camp is built around the rocks/boulders so it is very up and down, so would prevent some challenges for the less able." See all these reviews: 9n in Namibia

"A wonderful rocky mountain experience - spectacular cliffs and peaks
lengthening shadows and sunsets made the surrounding views exceptional.
tents were comfortable, but surprised the mosquito nets were not lowered at night, this led to our only insect bites of the trip (admittedly we could have done this ourselves - so no complaints) The climb up to the tent was up very steep and rocky steps - not ideal for anyone not completely mobile - as far as I could see all tents were up steep stairs.
Very friendly service. Sundowner was a bit of a scramble up a nearby peak, but the views around were worth it.
The nature drive was disappointing with not much nature - and the guide was not up to much - the trip was saved by a most interesting visit to see 2000 year old rock painting - well worth the bumpy ride.
We walked the 'Gecko Trai'l from the camp which was easy to follow and most rewarding" See all these reviews: 9n in Namibia

"We enjoyed the wide choice of activity at Erongo and especially appreciated that the walks were tailored to suit individual capabilities. The guides were knowledgeable and friendly. The whole atmosphere was of a friendly family-run lodge.

The food was superb, as was the service, and all the better for being eaten outside under the stars.

Make sure that you are confident in driving a 4x4 before you attempt the steep and rocky final approach to the lodge. If in doubt, leave your vehicle in the secure parking area and accept the offer of transport by the lodge.

The only observation is that there are steep climbs both to the rooms and to the main area. This is because it is built in a ravine, but those with walking difficulties or heart problems may find this a problem." See all these reviews: 16n in Namibia; 4n in Botswana

"I think the tents had been upgraded since our last visit and the one we had this time was really good, very light and airy. The best thing about Erongo are the walks and guides, some of whom were there on our visit 4 years ago. The sunrise walk was wonderful." See all these reviews: 16n in Namibia; 3n in Botswana

"We really enjoyed the walking here.

The guides are very friendly and knowledgeable. Beautiful area and very nice rooms.

The staff was very friendly." See all these reviews: 16n in Namibia; 4n in South Africa

"What a wonderful camouflaged setting amongst the rocks.

Sadly we couldn't stay longer here as our flights were changed. The food was excellent. The staff very friendly and there are some great walks with super views of the surrounding area.

We didn't see much wildlife apart from the rock hyrax (dassie) which live around the camp but we hadn't seen them elsewhere, so another animal to tick off the list.

Couli took us on a sundowner walk which was included with our trip and as before, a fountain of knowledge, having lived in the area for most of his life." See all these reviews: 14n in Namibia

"Glad we asked for 2 nights here as one would not be enough

Readily available walks from the camp with a variety of lengths and graded for difficulty. Staff great. Food great.

Our accommodation was furthest away from the restaurant however had an out door bed, shower, dining area, deck chairs and comfier seating plus indoor bed, bathroom and seating. You appreciated the care that had been taken designing the camp when looking down on it from the rocks on the trails.

The rocks round the restaurant housed dassies and one evening we noticed them all looking down the rock face to a massive rock python that was squeezing itself into the rockface searching for food.

Breakfast was shared with rosy cheeked lovebirds. Pool very cold and a little difficult to get into due to the uneven floor" See all these reviews: 15n in Namibia

"Rocky steep entrance road, left the Duster at the bottom.
Dispersed chalets across a large site, we are in the furthest away, 200-yard walk upwards in the heat.
Accommodation was fine, bed a bit small and no A/C
Nice external dining terrace with good views, but an arduous climb up to it.
Nice suppers in the balmy evening
Good excursions, Herman a good guide, the morning walk before breakfast was superb, watching the sun rise and illuminating the surrounding hills and mountains in a beautiful low-level light.
A hard climb for our sundowner walk, steep and rocky, but rewarded with fantastic views and good sunset over the Brandberg Mountains." See all these reviews: 18n in Namibia

"This is a real treat amongst the rocks. The drive the camp (even the last 400m) is easy for anyone in a 4WD vehicle.

The rooms are really well appointed and have incredible views. The bathrooms are cleverly designed and allow you to shower al fresco in privacy.

The bar and dining area are excellent with superb views. The food was really good and we thoroughly enjoyed the sundowner evening walk.

The self guided trails are well marked and the views from the top of the baboon trail are breathtaking! For animal lovers, there are hundreds of dassies scurrying about." See all these reviews: 13n in Namibia

"This lodge is located nicely amongst spectacular granite boulders. I requested a room with best views and was given one. However it seems to be poorly managed. They never bothered to obtain a couple of items put through to them more than once before my arrival. They only started ringing the store at Omaruru after I arrived and spoke to them. That store being in a small town had virtually nothing I needed except low fat milk. The owner who happened to be around for a few days had to go to pick it for me, with some of the other food being brought back by the manager from Windhoek (where his wife had to go for an appointment) after half of my stay was over.

I was told by Expert Africa that all the Namibian lodges confirmed they will supply what I requested, but it hasn't turned out to be the case.

Upon arrival I booked the sundowner tour, and was told to go to reception at 6.30pm. I went to reception at 6pm, confirmed it again, saw the guide walk past, and found out at 6.30pm they had left without me as the time had been changed to 6pm without the receptionist knowing, and the receptionist had never told the guide of my booking. So at 6.30pm, the owner had to take me up to join the group himself. I was very put out.

This lodge appeared to have little organization. Reception has no fixed open hours. Light bulbs leading up the steps to the restaurant were blown. If one didn't have a torch one had to go up stairs in the dark. I suspected they only got replaced as the owner was here and noticed it.

This lodge had a reputation for bird watching. But due to the severe drought 2 years ago, most species have left, and I only saw several rather common species around.

My recommendation is to spend about a day here, just to do some of the walking trails. Otherwise there's not much else to do." See all these reviews: 14n in Namibia; 4n in Zimbabwe; 1n in South Africa